On 19 March 2025, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe opened the 4th Annual Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference hosted by the DMRE, PASA and the South African Oil and Gas Alliance. This conference is a crucial event, addressing the pressing energy challenges, economic opportunities, and the need for a diversified energy future. Furthermore, Minister Mantashe’s address underscores the strategic importance of developing South Africa’s oil and gas resources to drive economic growth, create jobs, and ensure energy security.

The key points addressed by Minister Gwede Mantashe included:

  • Emphasis was placed on the urgent need to accelerate oil and gas exploration in South Africa to boost economic growth, potentially increasing the growth rate to 5% (and possibly 8%).
  • The South African government has established the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), a strategic intervention, to streamline and pursue oil and gas projects.
  • The Gas Master Plan, to be finalised, aims to diversify supply options and develop and efficient energy infrastructure network, including gas storage facilities, LNG import facilities, pipeline networks, and regasification plants.
  • Exploration and monetization of oil and gas resources could bring more revenue, create jobs, and drive inclusive economic growth.
  • A call for regional collaboration among SADC countries to unlock oil and gas exploration and development, ensuring the sector’s growth and prosperity.
  • Securing a diverse supply of energy sources is crucial to mitigate risks and ensure South Africa’s energy security.

Outcomes from the 4th Annual Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc.’s Energy and Projects team continuously works towards closing multiple projects and we highlight and celebrate the following recent closings:

  • Northam Karreebosch Wind Energy Project (140MW)
  • Red Rocket Overberg Wind Project (242MW – first phase)

Upcoming events

  • Africa Energy Forum (Cape Town): 17 to 20 June 2025; (Content to be linked during conference)


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